Architect (Mrs) Rakiya Abubakar, the National President of the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA), expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the continuous support and cooperation of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in various areas, including education, women and youth empowerment, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. She highlighted that NAFOWA’s commitment to “Service to Humanity” is unwavering.
During her courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, at the Headquarters NAF (HQ NAF) in Abuja on August 2, 2023, Mrs Abubakar, along with other members of NAFOWA, conveyed their appreciation for the support and encouragement they have received thus far. She assured the CAS that the Association is eager and prepared to contribute significantly to the overall success of the NAF.
Congratulating the CAS on his appointment, promotion, and subsequent decoration with the rank of Air Marshal by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mrs Abubakar emphasized their purpose for visiting the HQ NAF was to reinforce the already cordial relationship between the NAF and NAFOWA. She reaffirmed the Association’s unwavering loyalty and support to the NAF, stating that they are ready to complement the efforts of the Service in any way possible.
Mrs Abubakar reiterated the primary objective of NAFOWA, which is to promote the welfare and wellbeing of its members, children, and the less privileged in society through education and various skill acquisition programs. She also sought the NAF’s assistance in providing necessary infrastructure for the newly established NAFOWA Secondary School and NAFOWA Little Angels, located in Asokoro, Abuja.
In response, the CAS praised the members of NAFOWA as pillars of strength, unsung heroes, and a source of motivation for their husbands and families. He acknowledged the significant contributions of the Association to the country’s educational sector through NAFOWA Little Angels Schools and vocational centers. The skill acquisition and empowerment programs have been highly impactful, benefiting over 300 dependents in the past year, providing them with skills in catering, event decoration, soap making, embroidery, tailoring, and other areas.
While recognizing the challenges faced by NAFOWA members, including frequent postings, relocations, and the extended absence of their spouses, Air Marshal Abubakar encouraged them to find strength in their unity as a community. He emphasized that their synergy as women is unparalleled and remarkable. The CAS also urged them to continue being a network of support and a beacon of hope for those facing difficulties and challenges.
Architect (Mrs) Rakiya Abubakar was accompanied by the National Executive Council members of NAFOWA and other members during the visit, while the Branch Chiefs and Precedent Directors at NAF HQ were also present.
